Dropbox makes storing and syncing files a breeze from your Android device. However, easy access to all of your private information is not such a good thing when a nosey person is looking through your device, or worse, you lose your device out in the wild. Instead of worrying about your precious files, why not enable one or two of the security features built-in to the Dropbox app? Here's how to get started:

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

Step 1: Open the Dropbox app on your Android device. If you're new to Dropbox, you might have a small tutorial you can read through (or skip).

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

Step 2: Press the Menu button and then Settings. For Ice Cream Sandwich users, this will be the small three dots in the corner of the screen.

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

Step 3: Scroll down to Passcode lock option and press on the check box next to it.

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

Step 4: Touch Turn passcode on and enter your preferred passcode, then re-enter it for confirmation.

Enter your passcode into the boxes.
Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

(Optional) Step 5: You can also choose to Erase all Dropbox data from the device after 10 failed passcode attempts. Make sure you've picked a passcode you will not forget if you're going to select this option.

That's it! Now each time you open the Dropbox app you will be prompted for your passcode. Dropbox also does a great job of giving you the onscreen keypad to make entering the code as quick as possible.

About the author

Nicole Cozma has an affinity for Android apps and devices, but loves technology in general. Based out of the Tampa Bay Area, she enjoys being a spectator to both sunsets and lightning storms.
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